Bill > HR1660

This bill, known as the Biliteracy Education Seal and Teaching Act (BEST Act), aims to provide competitive grants to states to establish or improve Seal of Biliteracy programs that recognize students' proficiency in both English and a second language. The bill emphasizes the importance of linguistic diversity and multilingualism, highlighting cognitive, educational, and economic benefits of biliteracy. It allows states to create programs that test proficiency in various languages, including Native American languages, American Sign Language, and classical languages, with the goal of enabling students to demonstrate their language skills through speaking, writing, reading, and listening. The grant program would provide up to $10 million annually from 2025 to 2029, with states required to ensure equitable access for English learners, students with disabilities, and students who gained language proficiency outside traditional school settings. Recipients must provide a permanent seal on diplomas or academic transcripts and cannot charge students fees for participating. Each state can receive one grant for a two-year period, with the possibility of renewal, and must submit a report describing their program's implementation. The bill's broader aim is to encourage language learning, recognize student achievements, and support national security, economic growth, and individual potential through multilingual education.

Education

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1660/all-info